Acura - 2018 RLX Reveal

Acura is giving the RLX a makeover for 2018 to revive interest in its oft-forgotten larger sedan.

The new sheet metal will see Acura's flagship sedan do away with its controversial front grille affectionately known as the "chrome beak".

Acura cites a total system output of 377 hp and 462 Nm, which is identical to before, but it claims the RLX's powertrain and dynamic handling have been further optimised based on developments from the NSX. That's a lot of acronyms, but there's a lot of tech behind those names. It's a similar setup to the Acura MDX Sport Hybrid that we drove in the spring. Non-hybrid models - powered by a 3.5-litre V6 with 310 horsepower - now have a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Unchanged is the RLX Sport Hybrid's drivetrain, which continues to use a 3.5-liter V-6 and three electric motors to create torque-vectoring all-wheel drive (called SH-AWD in Acura-speak).

Both models get new styling, following on the heels of the updated Acura TLX. Apparently the wait continues for Acura's redesigned infotainment interface, first previewed past year. It's handsome and sure to be less divisive than before. Chief among the changes is the new signature diamond pentagon grille design which is incorporated into a new front clip that features a more sculpted hood surface. Acura says the materials have been upgraded as well, particularly where you'll commonly touch.

Other standard features include a premium Krell Audio System, Surround View Camera, parking sensors, LED fog lights, remote engine start, ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel and more. The 2018 model gets three new paint colors to go along with the new bodywork.

The RLX is available with the AcuraWatch suite of active safety technology. The other driver assists in AcuraWatch include lane keeping and departure warning, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. It keeps you in your lane and at a safe distance from the auto in front of you theoretically making traffic jams less stressful.

Like the current model, the AcuraWatch suite of safety tech is standard which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and other tech you'd expect to find in a vehicle in this class.

Look for more photos and pricing later this year.

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